Few things are as unpleasant as when your relaxing shower is rudely interrupted by a sudden surge of ice-cold water. It’s a real shock to the system!
This leaves people wondering, why does the water temperature change in the shower?
An unexpected temperature swing is typically preceded by a flushing toilet or a filling washing machine.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent this from happening.
Here are tips to help prevent water temperature fluctuations:
Maintain Your Pressure-Balance Shower Valve
A pressure-balance shower valve ensures your shower maintains a steady temperature no matter how many toilets are flushing or water-using appliances are on.
It does this by sensing when another fixture demands hot or cold water and compensates accordingly. That way the dishwasher won’t draw hot water away from your shower. Likewise, a refilling toilet won’t borrow cold water from your shower. No more surprises.
Making sure this component does not need replacement is key to preventing water temperature fluctuations.
Check Your Thermostatic Valve Regularly
A thermostatic valve, on the other hand, has two control valves -- one for pressure and one for temperature. This allows you to better customize your comfort, i.e. low-pressure hot water, high-pressure cold water, and everything in between.
Ensure Correct Water Heater is Being Used
Another reason your water temperature may be fluctuating is for having the incorrect water heater size. This most commonly happens when your water heater is too small for the demand that you are requiring from it.
Shall you have a larger family or use multiple water appliances regularly, you may need to upgrade your water heater to a larger model that will support the need.
Schedule Regular Plumbing Maintenance
Having regular plumbing maintenance is always recommended, as this is an opportunity to replace key components that may be nearing the end of their lifespan or showing signs of wear and tear.
Be sure to let the plumbers know about temperature fluctuations you may be experiencing, and they will ensure those components are up to quality standards. Having regular plumbing maintenance will not only prevent water fluctuations but also save you money in the long run.
The options that are available for your valve include types with universal inlets and outlets. For those who aren't sure of which type to get or how to install it, a professional and experienced plumber will be a big help. By hiring an expert, you can rest assured that your pressure-balance valve will be correctly installed and will work the way it’s intended.
Once the valve is up and running, you will no longer have to worry about any sudden and shocking temperature changes in your shower.